Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

OriginBlue to the horizon

The name comes from Latin. lavare, washing - the Romans added lavender to the bathwater, and a few thousand years later half of all detergents still smell of it.

True lavender originates from the limestone slopes of the western Mediterranean and grows wild primarily at altitudes between 700 and 1,400 meters. This is precisely the reason for its quality: the higher the altitude, the more linalyl acetate and the less camphor the plant produces – and the softer and sweeter the oil smells. The high plateaus of Provence, the Valensole plateau, and the slopes around Sault are therefore the classic growing areas; today, large quantities also come from Bulgaria, which has become one of the largest producers.

One should distinguish between three lavenders. True Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is the medicinal plant: relatively small, grows at high altitudes, has a fine, sweet oil, and contains little camphor. The Lavandin (Lavandula x intermediaIt is a hybrid of true and spike lavender, grows deeper, becomes much larger, yields three to four times the oil, and contains significantly more camphor – it smells sharper, "like cleaning products," and is what's found in soaps, scented sachets, and inexpensive oils. Spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia) is even richer in camphor and is used almost exclusively for technical purposes. Only true lavender is suitable for tea, medicine, and cooking.

Culinary uses of lavender in Europe are newer than many people think. In classic dishes Herbes de Provence It wasn't originally included – it was only added in the 20th century when the mixture became an export commodity. In English cuisine, however, it has been a staple since the 17th century: in shortbread, syrup, and sugar. And bees transform it into one of the most sought-after single-varietal honeys of the Mediterranean.

To useWhat lavender does for you

Regarding lavender, there's something you rarely see written about fragrant plants: The calming effect is not just a tradition. Commission E has given a positive assessment of lavender flowers for restlessness, difficulty falling asleep, and functional upper abdominal complaints; the European Medicines Agency lists them as a traditional use for nervous tension and sleep problems. Furthermore, there is a standardized lavender oil in capsule form that is approved as a medicinal product in Germany – tested in several randomized, placebo-controlled trials for restlessness and anxiety symptoms, with results that secured its approval. This is remarkable for a plant primarily used in fragrance.

However, this doesn't mean that every form performs the same way in everyday life. tea A remedy made from lavender blossoms is a mild, pleasant option for the evening – its effect is significantly weaker than that of the tested capsule and is not supported by the same studies. Scented sachet on the pillow It's a ritual that works through habit and association; the research on aromatherapy as a whole is sparse, although smaller studies in hospital settings have found indications of reduced tension before operations. And that bath Its justification stems primarily from the warmth.

Another of lavender's benefits is its mild antispasmodic effect on the gastrointestinal tract – hence its recognized use for functional upper abdominal complaints, such as nervous stomach issues where no organic cause can be found. Furthermore, the essential oil has proven antibacterial and skin-soothing properties, which is why it is traditionally used diluted for insect bites and minor skin irritations. However, it should not be applied undiluted to the skin, despite what is often claimed.

IngredientsThat's what's in the flower

The essential oil of true lavender consists of approximately 30 to 45 percent of... Linalyl acetate and 25 to 40 percent from Linalool. These two components create the characteristic soft, sweet, slightly fruity note. The higher the proportion of linalyl acetate, the higher the quality of the oil is considered—and the more expensive it is. For linalool, there is evidence from animal experiments and initial human physiological studies suggesting a calming effect via voltage-gated calcium channels in the nervous system; this is the most plausible explanation for the observed effect of the capsules.

The difference to lavandin lies primarily in the Camphor: Echter Lavendel enthält typischerweise unter einem Prozent, Lavandin sechs bis acht. Campher riecht scharf, medizinisch, „nach Verkühlungssalbe“ - genau die Note, die günstigen Lavendelprodukten ihren Putzmittelcharakter gibt. Wer im Laden riecht und an Waschmittel denkt, hat Lavandin in der Hand.

In addition, the blossoms contain tannins (up to 12 percent, which explain the astringency in the tea), rosmarinic acid, coumarins, and flavonoids. The same quality criteria apply as with chamomile: good quality blossoms have a distinct, sweet fragrance when opened, a vibrant purple color, and consist of whole flowers. Faded, odorless blossoms have long since lost their oil.

Enhanced combinationsWhat makes lavender stronger

Lavender is an herb that thrives in small quantities. Almost any mistake with it is an excess – in the cup, on the plate, and in the diffuser.

What contradicts itselfIt's best to avoid these combinations.

To which courtWhere he belongs

• Lavender teaOne teaspoon of blossoms to 250 ml, covered for eight minutes - in the evening, preferably mixed with lemon balm.
• Lavender shortbreadA scant teaspoon of finely ground blossoms on a baking sheet - the English original.
• Lavender sugarPlace flowers and sugar in a glass, let steep for two weeks, then strain – for pastries and desserts.
• Lavender honeyProvençal varietal honey, light and mild - or homemade with blossoms in the jar.
• Herbes de ProvenceThyme, rosemary, savory, oregano and a pinch of lavender - perfect with lamb and roasted vegetables.
• Panna cotta with lavenderBriefly steep the blossoms in the cream, strain, then bind - subtly floral, never soapy.
• Lavender syrupBoil blossoms in sugar water, let steep overnight, strain - for lemonade and aperitif.
• Lavender saltDried flowers with coarse salt in a mortar - served with lamb, goat cheese and baked potatoes.
• Scented sachetsDried flowers in a linen bag in the wardrobe - against moths and for sleep.
• Lavender bathAdd one liter of strong infusion to the bathwater - 20 minutes at a comfortable 37 degrees.

As a home remedyLavender oil for the evening

Ayurveda & TCMWhat the old systems say

Warning noticesWhen you should be careful

This page provides information and does not replace medical advice. If symptoms persist, please consult a doctor.

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